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Woman Explains Why Catch-Up Friendships Can Destroy Real Connection And How to Avoid the Trap
Uplifting News

Woman Explains Why Catch-Up Friendships Can Destroy Real Connection And How to Avoid the Trap

*Featured image contains photo by Andrea Piacquadio and Elina FairytaleWe've all heard the saying that the older we are, the smaller our circle gets...but this may not be for the reason we think. Social pattern expert Bianca Stelian, believes it's not just a matter of growing apart — but the way that we "catch up" when we're together.Have you found yourself stuck in the friendship rut? With no way to get out? If you woke up one day only to realize most of your meaningful relationships have stumbled into "no man's land," don't worry, you're not alone and this is for you.What Is a “Catch Up Friendship”Often growing up means getting closer to our dreams, but it doesn't come without sacrifice. Time is the precious thing we never have enough of. So, when it comes to seeing our old friends for our bi-annual "dinner and drinks," why don't we spend it wisely?“Every time you talk, you must start the conversation with many life updates. You have to hit every category: family, work, dating, social life, health, you get it. And before you know it, you’ve essentially spent 45 minutes interviewing each other like you’re on a reality show without really breaking past the surface.”Bianca Stelian, TikTokIn essence, a "catch up friendship" is a series of sporadic surface level connections that make old friends feel they're slowly drifting further instead of drawing closer. Two people ramble on about all the "big picture" moments in their life: They got engaged? Must have missed that on Facebook. They are working a completely different job? Thought they hated corporate culture. Their dear mother's fallen ill? Make sure to send flowers.And while yes, all these big moments are so important, they are not the sum total of the person we know and love. Somehow, after a rapid fire tennis match of "life updates" over 3 rounds (of cocktails), we end up going home, disheartened — feeling like we never even scratched the surface with how they are really doing. And sadly, they never quite got to to the heart of us either. We mistakenly chalk it up to being "different people."If this sounds familiar, check out the viral video below to hear the vicious cycle in her own words.Watch Bianca Stelian's Video: Does Growing Up Mean Your Friendships Are Fake?Of course not. The older you get, the more you have to plan in advance. Gone are the easy college days, where all your friends lived in a five block radius of each other. When you would waste the hours away grabbing coffee, watching a movie, or just studying near each other in silence.One day you wake up, and you're not a kid anymore. But that doesn't mean life isn't really good. Maybe you have the job you always wanted, or the partner you always dreamed of, or even just the best couch in the whole world to watch your favorite TV shows on. But in the famous words of Ferris Bueller, "Life moves pretty fast." And more often than not, all the extra time we used to spend with our friends is redirected to work or our family — sometimes we forget to stop and take a look around for the people who've been there since Day 1.One Simple Way to Break This “Nasty” CycleThe reality is, if we try and solve our "catch up friendship problems" by trying to schedule more frequent catch ups, we will be disappointed. Because it's not sustainable. You can't live a full adult life and still have the free time of a kid!According to Bianca Stelian, the best solution is to use social media to your benefit."Start posting your everyday little thoughts and life updates. It’s a wildly efficient way to reach a lot of people with a little bit of effort.” Bianca Stelian, TikTokIf knowing all the little things about a person is what a relationship is made up of — then share yours with your friends! "The posts don't have to be anything life changing," Stelian shares, "the smaller the better."Is “Growing Apart” a Myth About Growing Up?It's hard to say. When life gets so hectic, our instinct is to act from self preservation. You can't quit your job, you can't quit your kids, and you already got a divorce. So...looks like the friend who let you cheat off them for 4 years has gotta go! You didn't like her anyway...I mean come on, she let you cheat — that's a bad moral compass! It's easy to cut off lots of connections growing up, under the excuse that "we're in different places" or "we're different people." Suddenly, your high school bestie who nursed you through 8 back-to-back heartbreaks while you did a love spell on a poster of Aaron Carter, is just not the kind of person who want to be associated with!Now, sometimes it really is true. We grow up and we clash too much with people we used to laugh until we cried with. Take Derf McDerf for example! The author of My Friend Dahmer. Understandably, he wouldn't be too keen to schedule a friendship catchup via the Columbia Correctional Institution hotline.But it's not always the case. Ultimately, only you can decide what friendships to let go and which ones to nurture — neither are easy, but both are rewarding.More from Goalcast:Her Daughter Excluded Her Best Friend for Being “Too Fat” – Shocked Mom Takes Matters Into Her Own HandsWoman Who Lost Her Entire Family Waits for a Friend – But Someone She Wasn’t Expecting at All Shows Up InsteadMan Meets Up With Struggling Family at a Park – They’re Shocked to See His “Friend” Standing Behind Them

People Are Sharing Their One Simple Rule That Would Fix the World - And the Replies Are Golden
Uplifting News

People Are Sharing Their One Simple Rule That Would Fix the World - And the Replies Are Golden

The world can be a pretty messed up place sometimes — and one Reddit thread is going viral when it asked a big question. Is there one simple rule we could follow that would change the world?The answers came pouring in some cliched, some funny, and some downright insightful — but they all have a common thread.Keep reading to see if you can figure it out...“Let Go or Be Dragged”@k.tolnoe/instagramu/civagigi shared an old proverb they heard at a mediation class that resonated with them. The verse "really changed the way I let myself worry about things," they wrote.But what does "let go or be dragged" really mean? This ancient proverb speaks on the power of surrender. Let go of the idea that you can control certain things, and don't waste your energy clinging on to these forces. Holding on to people, ideas, and things that don't serve us will only act like a handcuff and drag us in a direction that will only bring more pain.“Leave It Better Than You Found It”u/Narcoid wrote a short phrase, but it packs a big punch."Leave it better than you found it" is like a guide for making things a little brighter. It means that in whatever you do – whether it's a place, a relationship, or a project – try to leave a positive mark.Clean up after yourself, spread kindness in relationships, or add value to your work. It's about making the world around you a bit better than it was before, leaving a positive impact in your wake."Be Generous and Humble"u/suvenpan elaborated on the importance of generosity and humility: "Being generous and kind encourages us to perceive others in a more positive light and fosters a sense of community. Humility teaches you to improve and make a positive impact on the world."In other words, generosity is like the person who quietly pays for the coffee of the person in line behind them. The act of generosity often makes a ripple effect. "Paying it forward" inspires others to do the same. Being humble, is like the colleague who always gives credit to the team, even when they excel individually. Both generosity and humility, when woven together, create a narrative of making the world a better place — one small, genuine act at a time.“Listen More, Talk Less”"Listen more, talk less" is a straightforward piece of advice emphasizing the importance of being a good listener and practicing restraint in speaking.Listening more and talking less is like being a good friend. You know how sometimes when you share something, you just want someone to listen? So, when we really listen, we put down our thoughts for a moment, get present, and hear what others are saying. It's the quickest way to get out of selfishness and step into seflessness. Giving others a chance to share their stories too is the gift that keeps on giving. More often than not, we are more impacted by other people's experiences than we are by simply reliving our own.“Everyone Gets a Plate Before Anyone Gets Seconds”u/ehsteve23 wrote, "Everyone gets a chance at one [thing] before anyone gets seconds." This is a revised version of the original saying, "Everyone gets a plate before anyone gets seconds."And the idea applies to more than just two servings of dessert.What does this principle mean and why is it more relevant than ever?The idea of "Everyone Gets a Plate Before Anyone Gets Seconds" reflects the principle of fairness and inclusivity. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring that everyone's basic needs are met before anyone receives additional or surplus resources.In the context of our world today, marked by various global challenges and disparities, this concept advocates for equitable distribution of resources, opportunities, and support. It urges societies to prioritize addressing fundamental needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare for all, fostering a more just and compassionate approach to societal well-being.In a world grappling with issues of inequality, this idea serves as a reminder to prioritize the welfare of all individuals, promoting a more balanced and harmonious coexistence.“You Don’t Do, Initiate or Threat Any Harm Unto Others”u/ufrag expertly summarized the philosophy behind the "non-aggression principle"In other words — The non-aggression principle is a moral and ethical guideline. It suggests that individuals should avoid causing harm or initiating force against others, except in situations where it is necessary to defend oneself from harm. In short, it advocates for peaceful and voluntary interactions, emphasizing the importance of resolving conflicts through non-violent means. This idea is often associated with certain ethical frameworks, such as libertarianism (individual liberty + limited government). At its best it aims to promote a society built on cooperation, consent, and the respect for individual rights.“Treat Others How You Want to Be Treated”@k.tolnoe/instagramu/AlbanyGuy1973 shared an oldie but a goodie — otherwise known as "The Golden Rule."There's many different versions of this quote: "Love your neighbor as you love yourself""What you would avoid suffering yourself, seek not to impose upon others""Walk a mile in someone else's shoes"But whatever formulation it comes in, the fundamental concept is the same.The importance of the Golden Rule lies in its universality and simplicity. It encourages empathy and compassion by prompting individuals to consider how their actions might impact others. By treating others with kindness, respect, and fairness, people contribute to the creation of a more harmonious and cooperative society.The Golden Rule seeks to build positive relationships, reduce conflict, and promote a sense of shared humanity. It transcends cultural and religious boundaries, offering a common ethical ground that resonates with the basic desire for fairness and understanding in human interactions.We've definitely all heard this one — probably in kindergarten? But hopefully that isn't the last time we used it!“Use Your Turn Signals Properly”u/futilelord brought it home with this one. On a metaphorical level, "Use your turn signals properly" symbolizes the importance of clear communication and transparency in one's intentions or actions. It suggests being open, honest, and considerate in expressing your decisions or changes in direction, ensuring that others around you are aware of your plans. It encourages thoughtful communication to navigate relationships and situations with clarity and mutual understanding.ORHe really just means use your turn signals!One Rule Is Made Up of Many ActionsThe beauty of a "single rule" lies in its ability to encompass a multitude of actions. Take the Golden Rule, for instance — treating others as you want to be treated. It sounds simple, but within its embrace exists a myriad of behaviors: offering kindness, showing empathy, practicing patience, and extending respect. It's a guiding principle that, when translated into actions, ripples into countless deeds, both big and small. From a reassuring smile to a helping hand, each gesture contributes to the tapestry of a compassionate and interconnected world. In essence, one rule can unfold into a diverse array of actions, having a profound impact of simple yet meaningful behaviors.Even if there's "one rule" there's no "one way" to go about it — and that's the best news.More from Goalcast:Single Dad Gets Shamed For Hugging Gay Son, Reddit Has The Best ResponseWhich Life Event Would You Remove? Viral Reddit Thread Offers Raw Lesson About GratitudeStranger Pays Man’s $110 Bill After He Forgets His Wallet – Leaves 3 Words on His Receipt and Disappears

Man Crosses Paths With Fellow Uber Eats Delivery Driver - Their Conversation Reveals Something Shocking
Uplifting News

Man Crosses Paths With Fellow Uber Eats Delivery Driver - Their Conversation Reveals Something Shocking

Instagram account @bikingDC is putting a new twist on what it means to be an influencer. Instead of showing off flashy cars, expensive watches, or lavish vacations — account admin aka UberEats delivery driver, Joshua Cavallero has a different mission — and it's beautiful.During a routine pickup, Cavallero was shocked when he crossed paths with a fellow UberEats cyclist "grinding" on a broken foot.So he decided to help make his day — and his rent cheque!Who Is @bikingDC?With over 1M followers it's safe to say @bikingDC has an impressive reach, but not for the reason you think.The 26-year-old is, by all standards, just a regular guy. So how does he get so many people invested in his day-to-day life? His hook is simple really.It all started during the summer of 2022. With the help of his GoPro, @bikingDC has recorded over 400 videos sharing what his day looks like as a delivery cyclist in Washington, DC.His adventures around the city have made him somewhat of a local celebrity and have even spurred a series of copycats. But the main purpose of this account is to demonstrate and expose what it's really like in the customer service industry. Needless to say the days can be emotionally and physically demanding, but for one fellow cyclist, the seemingly "simple" job took a whole new toll on his body.He Was Going About His Business — Then It Turned PersonalDuring a routine pickup, Cavallero crossed paths with a fellow UberEats cyclist, Kevin Ross, 44. He struck up a conversation and it didn't take long for Cavallero to notice something was really wrong with this picture. "This guy is the definition of never giving up… I couldn’t believe that he was doing this."@bikingDCNot only was Kevin Ross riding a bike with backwards wheels but he had entered the restaurant propped up by a metal walker — and the reason is heartbreaking. A Car Crash Put Him in the Hospital for 2 WeeksRoss had a broken foot from injuries he had sustained weeks prior in a car accident. He spent two weeks in the hospital and accrued medical debt bills he couldn't come close to paying. To make matters worse his rent was overdue.It was an impossible situation with seemingly no solution.Time had already run out, so Ross did the only thing he could do. He turned on his UberEats deliveries, got on his bike with a broken foot, and pedalled to the next pickup. The very same day he met Cavallero he had planned to ask his neighbor for a loan to avoid eviction. But fate stepped in and what happened next was even better."I love how humble this guy was. He was talking about doing this like it was no big deal too."@bikingDCWatch the Viral Video Below: His Followers Raised Over $2,500The interaction was brief, but Cavallero was quick to make sure he grabbed Ross's CashApp username. Cavallero said he wanted to send him a "tip," but what he did instead was much more meaningful.Cavallero shared video on Instagram and TikTok with his followers and the exchange racked up millions of views. In his caption he gently nudged his audience in the direction of kindness.@bikingdc/ InstagramThe comments came pouring in...and so did the cash. The next time Ross checked his CashApp he couldn't believe his eyes. In a matter of minutes he had received over $2,500 — there must have been a mistake; but he was wrong, in the best way!Ross said he didn’t know at first where that money had come from. He didn’t know that Cavallero ran @bikingDC and posted his CashApp information along with the video of them meeting. When Ross finally saw Cavallero’s post, he read through hundreds of comments.“We Gave Our Money to the Right Guy”“Most of the comments were people showing me love,” Ross said. “I really, really appreciate the kindness of people. Not just the money. I went through all the comments and almost all of them are positive.”Once Ross found Cavallero's social media page, the UberEats cyclists were able to connect at a restaurant once again — but this time they weren't ordering to-go. Ross and Cavallero met up at a local Nando's. They caught up and as a gesture of good faith Ross insisted on paying for the meal. After much protesting, Cavallero let him.“I felt like I had to do something for him,” Ross told me. “He really helped me out and changed my life because I was struggling.”The Giving Kept Going!Cavallero posted the heartwarming follow-up video to his page, wrapping up this chapter with a sweet bow. He noted while his bike was still damaged, Ross planned to save up to repair the front rack. Within in hours a generous follower (@justalivingcaitlin) had donated one to Ross herself.Blessing Others Like We Want to Be Blessed“I used to want to be that guy who would get caught in a giveback video, where someone would walk up to me and be like, ‘Here’s $1,000 dollars!’” Cavallero shared with the Washington Post. Cavallero said he posted that video of Ross because he respected him. He also could relate to him. He himself started delivering for UberEats after he lost his job and needed to pay his bills.“I was so broke. I wanted someone to bless me. But it’s amazing to be able to be the person blessing people. Now, I’m the guy who can put someone’s CashApp out there with a sincere story and use my platform to get them back on their feet.”Cavallero's story is a great reminder that while we may not have the power to handout infinite cash to all those in need, we do have the power to bless others the way we want to be blessed, in ways both big and small.More from Goalcast:

Lonely Grandmother Expects Grandkids to Show Up but They Dont - Then, the Doorbell Rings
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Lonely Grandmother Expects Grandkids to Show Up but They Dont - Then, the Doorbell Rings

Many parents have heard the saying, “The days are long but the years are short.” That adage also rings true for many grandparents these days, especially the ones who helped care for their grandchildren before they grew up.That’s why TikTok’s latest trend is resonating with so many people. Because sometimes it’s just nice to relive the good old days and have a busy household again.A Heartwarming SurpriseRecently, many adult children have started showing up at their grandparents’ homes unannounced and ready for a sleepover. They come in with surprises and smiles, then inform their loved ones that they’re staying for the night.Many grab their siblings or cousins and show up as a group, setting the stage for an impromptu get-together. It's reminding senior citizens of what life was like when they were younger, and they’d take their grandkids for the night.Jesse Armstrong is one such TikToker who jumped on the trend. She called up her cousins, and they came from across the states to surprise their grandparents in Michigan just before Christmas.“I texted all of my cousins in a huge group chat, and I said, 'We have to do this. It would surprise them, and they would love it,'” Armstrong told Good Morning America. Sure enough, when eight of their grandchildren showed up, they did.“All night long, if the room got silent for a minute, [my grandfather] would tear up and he would just say, 'I just can't believe you guys did this. This is so exciting. This is the best present I could have ever asked for, and I want you all to know I love each and every one of you so much,'" Armstrong said.“It was just so emotional because of all the health things he's been going through.”A Grandparent’s ReactionSixty-seven-year-old Pam Fair had been warned by her daughter, Brandi, that her three grandkids might come to surprise her in Mississippi shortly before Christmas. But when they didn’t show up, she washed her face and put on her pajamas. Then the doorbell rang.At the front door were her three grandkids, aged 21, 23, and 23, along with two of their partners.“Surprised their Nana with a sleepover,” Brandi captioned a TikTok reel, which has received more than 5 million views. “They haven't done this since they were little.”Years ago, Brandi worked nights as a nurse, and the kids would stay with Pam. Recently, Pam has been lonely, though, and the surprise was very welcome. The family stayed up looking at old photos and playing games.“She was so excited,” Brandi told Today of her mom’s reaction.An Action Goes ViralSocial media can be full of weird trends, but many people agree that this isn’t one of them. Instead, many are praising the grandkids for organizing these sleepovers. Others are sharing memories of their own grandparents, some of whom have since passed on.“This is the best trend in internet history,” wrote one person.“I would give anything to have an adult sleepover at my nan’s. I miss that woman beyond belief. I hope I’ll have this one day with my own grandchildren,” another person added.“The thought of my grandkids showing up at the door would make my year!” added someone else.Planning the Perfect SurpriseThis trend is so beautiful because, at its core, it reminds us to always make time for the people we love. In that vein, there’s no better time than the present to share your presence. Pick up the phone and chat with your parents, siblings, or besties. Plan that lunch date. Or go ahead and surprise your grandparents — with or without making a video.If you do hop on the trend, remember to bring food, snacks, and any other necessities to keep the stress off your grandparents. Clean up before you leave, too!At the end of the day, no one really knows how much time we have, which is why it’s so important to make the most of the time we do have. Spending our moments with loved ones and creating these kinds of memories is invaluable, and not all the money in the world could ever buy them.More from Goalcast:Second Grader Makes a Promise to Himself – 16 Years Later, His Grandparents Didn’t Expect Him to Do ThisFourth Grader Nearly Loses Her Grandpa to Heart Disease — So She Starts Obsessively Jumping Rope to Save Lives‘Hi Megan, It’s Grandpa’ – Woman Answers Sad Text from Her Lonely Grandfather in the Best Way

Struggling Cashier Pays for Strangers Meal After He Told Her He Only Has $1 - Then She Finds Out the Truth About Him
Uplifting News

Struggling Cashier Pays for Strangers Meal After He Told Her He Only Has $1 - Then She Finds Out the Truth About Him

In the bustling routine of daily life, where faces blur into the crowd, individual stories often fade into the background. Yet, sometimes, a simple interaction can illuminate the extraordinary in the ordinary, reminding us of the unique stories each person carries.Enter MDMotivator, or Zachery Dereniowski, a man on a mission, known for his acts of kindness and dedication to mental health advocacy. Through his social media presence, Zach has become a beacon of hope, sharing his journey and inspiring others to open up about their struggles.What a Stranger Asked From a CashierPhoto by Anna TarazevichOn a particular day, Zach steps into a fast-food joint, not just for a quick bite but with a mission in mind. Approaching the cashier, Kim, he poses a simple yet revealing question: “What can I get for a buck?”The cashier, momentarily puzzled, scans the menu for the cheapest item. The options are limited, and nothing quite fits the bill. Then, an idea strikes her. She asks Zach if he likes hot dogs. When he says he does and asks about the cost, she tells him – $2.49, more than he’s asked to spend. But what comes next is unexpected. She offers to pay for it herself.Curious, Zach asks why she would do this for a stranger. The cashier’s response is heartwarming. “I’ve been there. I know what it’s like,” she said. In a moment of recognizing an opportunity to make a difference, she seized it, however small it might seem.“It sucks when nobody wants to help you,” Kim said.This gesture captures the essence of human connection – a simple act of kindness that speaks volumes. Zach, revealing his identity as MDMotivator, known for turning moments of kindness into viral stories, is about to add another chapter.How One Cashier Proved Small Acts Have a Huge ImpactIn exchange for the worker’s willingness to pay for his meal out of her pocket, Zach offers her a stack of cash from his own. After putting the initial dollar bill into her tip jar, he pulls out a handful of hundreds, totaling $1,000.When Zach later posted the interaction to his TikTok channel, it went viral, amassing over 5.4 million views on that platform alone. The video resonates because it reflects a universal truth: we all have the power to uplift others, no matter how small the action may be.But that wasn't it! Zach created a GoFundMe page for Kim, which has currently has $11,000.In the fast-paced world where moments often slip away unnoticed, this exchange serves as a powerful reminder. The seemingly mundane act of buying a hot dog becomes a symbol of empathy and connection. It's a testament to the fact that kindness, no matter how small, has a ripple effect that reaches far beyond the initial gesture.This story, shared by Zach, isn’t just about a meal or money; it's about the profound impact of compassion, reminding us that in the grand tapestry of life, each thread of kindness adds to the beauty of the whole.More from Goalcast:Woman Notices a Long Line of Hungry Customers at Whataburger – Their Interaction With Deaf Cashier Goes Viral91-Year-Old Great-Grandmother Can Finally Retire Her Cashier Job – All Because She Took Matters Into Her Own HandsMan Writes a LinkedIn Post After His 59-Year-Old Dad Lost His Cashier Job – And the Response Was Shocking

Man Challenges Athlete to a Race Because He Thinks Women Cant Beat Men - Her Response Goes Viral
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Man Challenges Athlete to a Race Because He Thinks Women Cant Beat Men - Her Response Goes Viral

While stereotypes can be dangerous, sometimes they can be downright funny. Thankfully, one college athlete knew just what to do when an overconfident peer thought he could beat her at her own game — literally.When Will We Learn to Stop Underestimating Women?A recent TikTok video is going viral for all the right reasons!University of Virginia track and field athlete Alahna Sabbakhan (@lahnazak), was at crossroads. The scholarship athlete was shocked when she was challenged to a race by a male acquaintance who insisted "no woman could beat him."The best part? Her challenger wasn't even an athlete. What's even more bizarre was her challenger brought his family along to see his projected "big win." He Couldn’t Have Been More WrongIt all started during one of Alahna's routine workouts.The track star had been minding her own business, when her boyfriend's friend showed up out of the blue and insisted on competing against her in 400-meter race. Despite the absurdity of his claims, the 22-year-old track star embraced the opportunity before her. Instead of choosing to be insulted by his overconfidence, she chose to turn it into a powerful lesson for everyone watching...and the results couldn't have been more perfect.He Didn’t Realize He’d Just Picked the Hardest RaceDuring the first half of the 400-meter race, she cheekily kept pace with her challenger, who "does not run" regularly, she said in the video. "He didn't really know what to challenge me in," she says. "He was like, 'Yeah, I could beat her in the 400' — not realizing that that was one of the hardest track events and that was one of my secondary events."Alahna SabbakhanAt the 150 meter mark, her challenger wrongly thought they were neck and neck — he didn't realize he'd already overexerted himself whereas Alahna was just getting started.After the first 200 meters passed, her competitor fell off. At the same time, Alahna picked up the pace to "finish hard, because that's what you do as a track runner," she shared.It wasn't long before the gap between them widened drastically and Alahna was the clear winner, leaving her overconfident competitor in the dust.Maybe someone should have warned him to stay in his own lane (literally)!She Had Nothing To Prove — "Just to Clarify, I Did Not Want to Race This Man"Even though he was totally out of his field, Alahna wasn't looking to school anyone.In her video Alahna clarifies she was a reluctant participant; "I did not want to race this man. I was already at the track with my boyfriend doing a workout, and he came to join."More than anything, the athlete — who runs a successful TikTok page sharing diet and fitness tips — wanted to remind her followers to not let other people's opinions of you get in your head!TikTok / @lahnazak"My mom tells me this all the time: You already won. You already got your college scholarship, earned your athlete status," she continues. "So I don't think me racing some random guy at the track is really going to determine anything for me."Nearly 12 million views later, it's clear Alahna's story made its mark.With millions of views and climbing, the virality of the video speaks to the "universal experience" of having our years of hard work questioned and why it's important to block out the noise and keep your eyes on the prize.Finish Strong for Yourself — One Athlete’s Inspiring Message for People EverywhereWhen it comes to confidence, Alahna shared her story as a reminder of why it's so important to not compare yourself to others."Focus on your journey and your progress and where you used to be and where you want to be, because it's just going to waste your time and drain your energy to be focused on everyone else," she says.Keep realistic and motivating goals. "If you're writing them down and reminding yourself of (your goals) every day, then that really helps block out that extra noise," she says. "That's been helping me not care about the negative things people are saying to me because of that video. I'm just reminding myself about how I have bigger goals."

Residents of a Small Town Trick UPS Driver - What He Found Overwhelmed Him to Tears
Uplifting News

Residents of a Small Town Trick UPS Driver - What He Found Overwhelmed Him to Tears

Everyone wants to feel seen and appreciated in life. Knowing and feeling your purpose can be essential to our overall well-being and our mental health, which is why it’s so important to show people that you appreciate them and care.One small town in Pennsylvania did exactly that one year when they saw just how hard their local UPS driver was working for them and how he went above and beyond to ensure they had the best experience possible.An Exemplary EmployeeDauphin, Pennsylvania, is the type of town you might picture in a Hallmark Christmas movie. There are no traffic lights, and everyone looks out for one another. As of 2021, the population was less than 800 people, making it a tight-knit community.“Blink and you’ll miss it,” resident Joe Calhoun told Today. “But there is something so special here. It’s a small town with a big heart.”UPS driver Chad Turns doesn’t live in Dauphin, but the town is part of his delivery route. Over the years, the driver has endeared himself to the residents with his thoughtfulness and kindness. He carries dog treats for the local pups, for example.“The whole town has had personal experience with Chad,” Adam Shickley told CNN about Turns. “He once thought a package was a gift, and there was a picture on the front. My kids were playing outside, so he waited until his shift was done and came back to make sure they didn’t see it.”“On Facebook, another friend mentioned there was a package that needed signing and they weren’t home,” Jenny Shickley added to Today. “Chad was nervous that it was important, so he went to their parents' house to get it signed for them.”Rough Times for DriversIn 2020, when the pandemic hit, and stay-at-home orders were in place, Turns was still out there making his deliveries. In fact, because so many people were ordering things to their homes, he was busier than ever. That didn’t stop his sunny disposition, but it did make his job a lot harder.The residents noticed and began commenting on how great Turns was doing on the town's Facebook page.“He’s been working 60-80 hour weeks for a year,” Jenny Shickley told Today. “He’s been working Christmas-style hours for 365 days.”Eventually, Shickley was inspired to do something to show Turns how much he meant to all of them. So she organized a “Thank You, Chad” event through social media and rallied everyone to contribute to a group gift.“The funny thing is I meant to set it up for $300, but it set to $500,” she shared. “It hit $500 within two days, and the total wound up being a little over $1,000.”An Epic SurpriseOrganizers worked with UPS dispatch to surprise Turns. One day, the company arranged for Turns' last stop to be an on-demand pickup at the municipal building. The driver thought he was heading out to pick up a box, but when he arrived, community members were standing there holding signs.“It was very overwhelming,” Turns told Today. “The idea that they even thought of me to do anything... to go above and beyond and do what they did was truly amazing to me.”Turns added that he always feels the town’s generosity and noted people often offer him water or cookies as he goes about his route. But this particular act of kindness was a true gift that made him tear up.“I cried,” he said, adding that his wife also teared up. “I always call her when I leave work, and she asks me how my day was. It was a tearjerker. It was very touching and humbling.”“Chad is a great UPSer and has been delivering to Dauphin residents for more than a decade,” UPS spokesperson Jackie Fajt told CNN in a statement. “Celebrations like this really highlight the bond our drivers have with their customer base. We appreciate that UPS drivers like Chad are being recognized for how they are moving our world forward.”Spreading KindnessSo often, we forget about the people in our lives who help make our daily routines easier. The people who make our coffee at the drive-through. Those who deliver our parcels or pick up our trash. The teachers who help to educate our children.This story reminds us that by taking time to thank people, even through small gestures, we can help to make them feel seen and appreciated. Whether that’s offering someone a glass of water, giving them a thank you card, or organizing something bigger, like this town did, every action matters.After all, acts of kindness can make the world a happier place for us all.More from Goalcast:Mom Notices UPS Driver Leave a Message on Her Door Cam – What He Said Changed both Their LivesUPS Driver Goes Viral for Taking Adorable Selfies With Dogs He Meets During Delivery RouteUPS Driver Trusts Instinct And Stops To Check On Resident – Ends Up Saving A Life

Little Girl Without a Father Yearns to Attend Dad-Daughter Dance - So Her Mom Comes Up With a Plan
Uplifting News

Little Girl Without a Father Yearns to Attend Dad-Daughter Dance - So Her Mom Comes Up With a Plan

Eleven-year-old Audrey Soape always looked forward to the father-daughter dance at her local church in Pflugerville, Texas. Dressing up in heels and dancing with her dad among her friends was the highlight of her year. But after her father’s death, she didn’t know if she’d ever get to experience that night again.How One Little Girl Experienced the Loss of 2 Important Family MembersIn March 2021, Audrey’s father passed away in a tragic accident. Five weeks later, her grandfather, who would have stepped in as her date to the dance, also passed away."It was just a very tumultuous time for all of us. Very emotional," Audrey's mother Holly Soape told CBS News. A lot of grief, a lot of sadness, a lot of anger. So anytime that I have the opportunity to bring joy or excitement into both my children's lives, I absolutely jump at that moment.Holly SoapeThe father-daughter dance was a tradition, something Audrey always got to do. While the rest of her life was completely upended, Holly knew Audrey still wanted this one thing."I knew with the dance coming up it would be an emotional thing. It would be a disappointing thing not being able to go. She brought it up a few times, saying she wished she could go," Holly said. "She even at one point asked if I would escort her to the dance. I knew that if she was going to go, that I wanted it to be something really incredible. Something that would just make her feel special and would make her feel loved and important. So I tried to think of the coolest thing that I could come up with.”How One Brilliant Idea Helped an 11-Year-Old Fulfill Her WishThat’s when Holly came up with a brilliant idea: The family had always been big fans of Anthony Harris, a football player for the Philadelphia Eagles, so Holly decided to ask him to escort her daughter to the dance.I knew it was a long-shot. I didn't really expect him to say yes. I was shocked and overjoyed when he said that he was going to do it.Holly SoapeThis request was not the first time Holly had reached out to Anthony. Since March 2020, Holly has been messaging Anthony over Instagram to offer kind words of encouragement and prayers before big games or during career transitions. Holly also sent Anthony a message the day after her husband died, hoping for some comfort from her favorite player.Why Anthony Harris Took a Little Girl to a Dad-Daughter DanceAnthony, who was raised by a single mother, wanted to support Holly and her family as much as he could. He promised that when the season was over, he would fly from his home in Florida to Texas to take Audrey to the father-daughter dance."I was like super surprised. Like, more than I can explain surprised. And I was also like, really nervous," Audrey said. "Probably more nervous than excited at the beginning, because I didn't know what I was going to say or do around him. As the night went on and time passed by, he felt more like my friend, and I could talk to him and open up to him more.”Not only did Anthony take Audrey, but he also bought her a new dress and shoes and paid for her to get her hair and makeup done.Holly went to the dance, too, after she signed up to be a chaperone at the event. She got to witness her daughter and her family’s favorite player tear it up on the dance floor.He started engaging in conversations with her, like asking how her day was, asking about her dad, sort of making her laugh, and got her out on the dance floor. As the night progressed, he really went out of his way to just make sure she felt special, that she felt comfortable and that she was having a good time.Holly SoapeThe feelings the dance created didn’t end that night."I think even days after, we were still sort of reeling from it. Like I would flip through the pictures I was like, 'That actually happened. Like, he really came,’” Holly said. "They really had a great time. And just seeing the smile on her face, it was just incredible.”How NFL Player Anthony Harris Provided a Glimmer of Hope in Dark TimesThe year was a difficult one for the Soapes, a time filled with a lot of grief and loss. But in the darkness, there were beautiful moments, too."It really kind of just changed the dialogue of the whole year. It was just this horrible, dark year that ended on this really, really positive note. And so it sort of gave us a little bit of joy and light at the end of a very dark tunnel. It was just a magical experience for everybody," Holly said.Even in dark times, there is hope to be found. For the Soapes, that hope was found in Anthony. Instead of what could have been a dark day for Audrey as she stood alone at the father-daughter dance, Anthony gave her something to smile about. He reminds us to support one another, and Audrey reminds us to keep on dancing.More from Goalcast:Boy Walks More Than 2 Hours to Make It to His Graduation – Then an NFL Star Steps Up With a Free RideFormer NFL Player Devon Was Terrified to Have More Children After His Daughter’s Cancer — Now He’s a Father of 3Woman Forced to Sell Precious Belongings to Raise Money for Grandfather’s Funeral – Then, an NFL Star Steps In

Teacher Asks Her Low Income Students to Submit Christmas Wishes - What She Reads Breaks Her Heart
Uplifting News

Teacher Asks Her Low Income Students to Submit Christmas Wishes - What She Reads Breaks Her Heart

Ah, Christmas. For some of us, it really is the most wonderful time of year! But for so many others it can be a cruel reminder of what little they have and how there's not enough to go around.Whether we like it or not, Christmas is a holiday with two sides. On one end of the spectrum there's chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at your nose, and multiple trips to Home Sense for overpriced festive decor. On the other end of the spectrum? Well Christmas "cheer" looks a little different.For thousands of Las Vegas High School Students, waking up on Christmas morning would look really different — and no, it isn't wasn't because they'd have to trade snowmen for sandmen!She Read Their Christmas Wishlist — And the Wishes Are HeartbreakingEvery year, Cheri Guy, an English teacher at Desert Pines High School, gladly participates in a school wide program called "Wishmas." "Wishmas" is exactly what it sounds like. A Christmas Wish List every student is welcome to add one item to. The only requirement? That the student share why that particular gift is important to them.“We have a lot of kids who are in the foster system, we have a lot of kids who are living in poverty. These kids are facing enormous stress outside of the classroom," she said.When Ms. Guy — one of the teacher's in charge of the Wishmas initiative — looked at the list for the first time, her students' simple wishes broke her heart. Their reason for why they wanted these gifts, brought her to tears. "One of the kids asked for a grocery store gift card."What's even more devastating? This anonymous student wasn't the only teen looking to secure his next meal. One student asked for a Wing Stop gift card because "it will give me free food for the day." Similarly, another student asked for a bag of Taki chips "so I wouldn't get hungry." One kid asked for peanut M&Ms. Another student wrote they wished for a pair of black slippers "so my feet won't get cold." One Student Just Wanted a Physics Textbook — He Dreamed Of Becoming an Astrophysicist“A few of the seniors are asking for a yearbook because they can’t afford it. One kid asked for help paying for their cap and gown for graduation,” Cheri Guy shared. “We have a student who asked for a textbook called Lectures on Physics because he wants to be an astrophysicist.” As they say, the list goes on and on — and with 3,000 students at Desert Pines High School? The list really goes on.Certain students dreamed bigger than others — and it's beautiful. Ms. Guy shared one teenager was shooting for the stars! Even though he knew it was unlikely, he wished for a guitar because he loved playing but couldn't afford his own. However, one kid dreamed bigger than all the rest. And his wish changed everything.When Ms. Guy read one student's wish, she couldn't take it anymore. "I wish for all the wishes to come true." First she broke down in tears. Then, she picked herself up and took action. She was going to give it her all, to make this wish come true.To pull it all off, she'd need a Santa-size miracle. So she did the only thing she could think of — she shared her story on the internet. To her utter shock, this is what happened.She Took to TikTok to Ask For Help — The Response Was Overwhelming All it took was one TikTok clip and the anonymous heroes of the internet did the rest. Yes, good people exist and they're closer than you think...sometimes it just takes a speech with heart and the click of a button! After feeling completely helpless to meet this impossible challenge on her own, Ms. Guy took to TikTok (@attagirlguy) to share a 3 minute video of exactly what she was up against."I work in a school of over 3,000 kids. There's no way I could do it all, right?"In her emotional video, Ms. Guy's passion is undeniable. This is a woman who has devoted her life to these children and after reading out just a handful of the thousands of simple Christmas wishes, she asked for others to join her in helping make them come true!"Maybe spread this around. Maybe we could do something to try and make these things happen. Because there's no way even all the teachers if we picked one student we couldn't cover everything. There's so many students and they don't want a lot."The Donations Came Pouring In — She Received More Help Than She Ever Could Have ImaginedThey may not have been elves in workshops, but hundreds of strangers showed up in the most unimaginable way possible. Within a matter of days, Ms. Guy had more gifts than she could carry — literally. Amazon deliveries and handmade care packages were mailed in from all over the world! On one particular day Ms. Guy took six trips to the post office filling her car with all the gifts students were being sent.How One Teacher Is Making a DifferenceMs. Guy is no stranger to the struggles that come with being a modern day educator. There's of course, the the abysmal pay; teachers starting salary is around $48,000 and it's a hot topic in the USA. There is the total lack of resources; hundreds of teachers across the country have spoken out about how they are in constant need of supplies. One teacher even went viral for enlisting the help of her sorority sisters to buy glue sticks for her kids!Ms. Guy in particular is fighting an uphill battle. She teaches in a specific program called "Jaguar Academy: within Desert Pines High School." The students in Jaguar Academy are considered at risk youth who aren't meeting academic or social expectations.As always, for these neglected kids and students from low income homes, the poverty cycle (and the danger that comes with it) is almost impossible to get out of. Guy says some of her kids are "on probation for one tiny mistake."But the random acts of kindness from strangers has the power to change that narrative. “One of the most incredible things about Wishmas is these kids are realizing that they are loved — and not just by the staff at school, but by strangers around the country (who) care about them and believe in them,” Guy says. There’s a sign hanging in Guy’s classroom that says “One Person Can Change a World.”“It used to say, ‘One person can change the world,’ but I changed it to ‘a world,’ because it’s not about changing the whole world. That’s what overwhelms us,” she says. “But if you can just think about, ‘What can I do for one person?’ That’s changing a world — and if we could all do that? Just imagine what our society would turn into.”One Person Can Change a WorldSometimes it's easy to forget that "privilege" comes in many forms. Sure, privilege can look like Kim Kardashian flying around the world in private jets...but it can also look like having a roof over our head, a loving parent, and not stressing about where our next meal is coming from.Reading the Christmas "wishes" of over 950 students at Desert Pines High School — it's clear they don't have these simple luxuries. We could all use a reminder that it's better to give than to get and the best gift we can give ourselves is to give generously. There's still a few items left on Ms. Guy's Amazon Wishlist! If this story inspired you, and you want to do your part, check out the link or see if there are any local initiatives that need your help this holiday season!Donations are accepted until Dec. 15th, 2023.More from Goalcast:Teacher in Poor District Needs School Supplies — So Her Sorority Sisters Help in Epic WayElderly Man Heartbroken Every Christmas After the Passing of His Wife — Then, He Receives Something Shocking in the MailRich Actor Finds Little Boy in Dumpster and Invites Him Over to Her House for Christmas – He Ends Up Completely Changing Her Life

Poor Boy Collects Cans on the Street to Survive - Then a Stranger Approaches Him and Brings Him to Tears
Uplifting News

Poor Boy Collects Cans on the Street to Survive - Then a Stranger Approaches Him and Brings Him to Tears

You may have heard of Bl Phakathi, South Africa’s “Secret Santa.” The motivational speaker and life coach is known for sharing successful, viral videos of giving and gratitude, and this past November he was at it again to bring us all to tears.Bl Phakathi’s Chance Encounter With a Boy Who Collected Cans to SurviveIn a video posted to Phakathi’s verified YouTube channel last November, the man in question meets a boy working in loneliness on the streets collecting cans while cleaning and guarding cars for cash. Phakathi introduces himself to the kid, who identifies himself as Rudy.The pair start to chat, with Phakathi asking him questions like where he stays, who he stays with, and how much he makes in a day (less than $50 in his local currency).I want to study, but my father says I must start work.Rudy“It is better than nothing,” Rudy explains over the last question, revealing he lives across the street with his father, who is separated from his mother.“I want to work, actually. Because I’m tired of standing like this. Nobody wants to give me a chance because of this corona," Rudy adds.The boy then mentions that his father was working for “small money” every week, and now he comes to the streets to make money and support his family. “I buy food and cigarettes for my father and food for me,” he adds.How a Famous YouTuber’s Generous Gift May Change a Struggling Boy’s DestinyAfter hearing Rudy’s story, Phakathi hands him a giant bag of cans and food and tells him to take it home and give it to his father. The boy is clearly blown away and thanks the man for his kindness. He puts down the cans he has been collecting to shake Phakathi’s hand in gratitude, but instead, Phakathi hands him a wad of cash.He asks Rudy to count the $350, then hands him even more bills totaling more than $1,000. “Now my heart is beating!” Rudy says, fighting back tears. When Phakathi tells the kid to bring some of the money home to his dad but to hide the rest so he can get on his feet, Rudy can no longer stop the tears from coming.It was the toughest time, what happened to me. Thank you very much.Rudy“Thank you very much,” he says, clutching the bills and wiping his tears before storing the money in the pocket of his shorts. In response, Phakathi then hands Rudy a few more hundred-dollar bills. “Take this extra. It’s going to help you.”After hugging it out and calming down, Rudy then picks up his cans and thanks the man again.How Bl Phakathi’s Kindness Can Inspire Your Own GenerosityThe fact that Rudy still picked up his cans to exchange for money after receiving such a life-altering gift just highlights how unused to any kind of help this kid is. It’s also a huge reminder that although some children desperately want an education, they need to work and help support their families instead.Phakathi records and shares these encounters to inspire others to give back, but to also highlight the reasons some people are in the situations they’re in. One of the most powerful components of this story lies in the comments section of the video itself. There, many people who are around the same age as the boy say he reminds them they have so much in their own lives and they often take it for granted.It’s always nice to help others who are less fortunate than us through a donation, a bag of food, or a warm cup of tea or coffee. But it’s also nice to get to know someone and learn about their life story.If you too want to inspire others to give and practice gratitude, sharing Rudy’s story is a good start. But also show it to kids who may not understand how those in other countries, cities, towns, and situations may live. They say you never know what a person is really going through until you walk a mile in their shoes. But thanks to Phakathi and his videos, at least we can see what an impact simple kindness can have.More from Goalcast:World’s Most Popular YouTuber Helps 1,000 Blind People See Again by Paying for Their SurgeriesMan Attacks Famous YouTuber Online – What His Dad Does Next Is Applause-WorthyMen Play Cruel Prank on 8-Year-Old at Target – Little Did He Know There Was Much More to Come